DERRINGER derringer 25AP191

High-Velocity Hard Rock Debut: Derringer ‘Derringer’ Japanese Promo (25AP 191)

This 1976 release marks the self-titled debut of the band Derringer, led by the virtuosic guitarist Rick Derringer following his successful tenures with The McCoys and the Edgar Winter Group. Released on the Blue Sky label and manufactured by CBS/Sony Inc. in Tokyo, this album captures a transition toward a more aggressive, guitar-driven hard rock sound. The band featured a powerhouse lineup, including bassist Kenny Aaronson and drummer Vinny Appice, delivering a technical yet highly melodic brand of rock that remains a cult favorite among guitar enthusiasts and fans of 1970s arena rock.

Rare Promo Specifications and Campaign Details

This specific copy is a highly collectible Promo Sample, distinguished by the promotional “Sample” (見本盤) designation on the center labels. As an initial first pressing run, the audio is sourced from early stampers (indicated by the A1/B2 matrix codes), offering the sharpest and most dynamic soundstage available for this recording. This release was also part of the “Winter Family Campaign ’76,” a high-profile marketing initiative by CBS/Sony Japan to promote their premier international rock roster during the year-end season.

Premium Packaging and Archival Materials

The record is complete with its original supplemental materials, which are critical for its historical and collector value. This includes the original Obi strip and a comprehensive 4-page insert. The insert features detailed liner notes by Nobuyuki Yoshinari and Japanese lyric translations by Hideaki Okada. Interestingly, the first and last pages of this insert were designed to mirror the photos, credits, and lyrics found on the inner sleeves of the original US pressings. Manufactured with the exceptional vinyl quality for which CBS/Sony was renowned, this 1976 Japanese promo remains a definitive archival document of Rick Derringer’s evolution into a premier hard rock bandleader.